An Egyptian-Spanish archaeological team has uncovered a 4,300-year-old tomb near Cairo. The tomb belongs to an ancient judge and his father, according to local authorities. Found at the Saqqara necropolis, south of Cairo, the tomb dates back to the reign of Pharaoh Djedkare Isesi, known for administrative reforms in Egypt’s Fifth Dynasty during the 24th century B.C.
Details of the Tomb
The tomb was built for Yunmen, a high-ranking official responsible for listening to appeals and resolving complaints. Amr al-Tayeb, director of the Saqqara archaeological site, explained that Yunmen’s duties align with the concept of Maat, representing truth, justice, and social order.
This discovery occurred during the summer excavation at Mariette Cemetery in northern Saqqara. The project is ongoing, led by the Autonomous University of Barcelona and Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities.
Architectural Features
The tomb is a mastaba, a flat-roofed structure common for elite officials. It has two chapels: one for Yunmen and another for his father, Ity. Ity served as a senior scribe overseeing agricultural lands and offerings.
Yunmen’s chapel features carved reliefs displaying scenes of farmers, servants carrying offerings, and funeral rites. Despite being buried for over 40 centuries, many paintings retain their original colors. Photos shared by the Egyptian tourism and antiquities ministry show these well-preserved scenes.
Additional Discoveries
Archaeologists found an ornate facade with funeral inscriptions and depictions of Yunmen. Ity’s chapel contains traces of painted offering scenes and a false door, signifying a gateway for the deceased to receive sustenance.
Impact on Tourism
This discovery aims to boost Egypt’s tourism sector, crucial for foreign currency inflow. In November, Egypt hosted foreign dignitaries for the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum. The $1 billion project faced delays due to financial crises, political unrest, the COVID-19 pandemic, and regional conflicts.
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